Sonos Ace challenges Apple’s AirPods Max with superior headphones

Stepping into the highly competitive personal audio market, Sonos launches the Ace, their first over-ear headphones. In a landscape dominated by heavyweights like Apple’s AirPods Max, the Sonos Ace aims to be the brand’s ace in the hole, promising to deliver an unparalleled listening experience. Crafted with precision and care, these headphones are designed to combine high fidelity sound with exceptional comfort and a sleek, timeless design. The Ace better live up to its name, offering a compelling alternative in a market where excellence is the baseline expectation.

Sonos Ace in Black and Soft White

Designer: Sonos

Reflecting a meticulous design process that spans over three years, the Sonos Ace emerges as a product of intense collaboration across technical and creative disciplines. Aki Laine, director of industrial design at Sonos, described the Ace as a pair of headphones that feel as good as they look. Available in two sophisticated colors, Sonos Black and Soft White, these headphones were carefully selected to ensure inclusivity and appeal. The headphones use flexible plastics for a lightweight feel and sturdy metals for structural integrity. The ear cushions and headband are covered in vegan leather, providing a durable yet soft touch that supports extended wear.

Sonos Ace in Black

Sonos Ace Soft White

Sonos Ace Soft White

Aki Laine emphasized the importance of comfort in the Ace’s design, noting, “The lightweight memory foam and vegan leather ensure comfort for long-term use.” The headband and ear cushions are padded with memory foam, designed to conform to various head shapes and sizes. This attention to detail ensures a secure fit without exerting excessive pressure, even accommodating accessories like glasses and earrings. The design also incorporates visual and tactile cues, such as the textured logo and color-coded ear cups, to help users quickly orient and operate the headphones. Comfort is a key focus for the Sonos Ace, ensuring that users can wear the headphones for long periods without discomfort. Extensive testing was conducted to achieve the right clamping force and weight distribution, making sure the headphones are stable and provide a snug fit without causing hotspots. The ear cups are designed to accommodate various ear sizes and shapes, enhancing overall comfort.

Engineered to deliver a high-quality audio experience, the Sonos Ace excels in acoustic performance across different media types. Each ear cup houses custom-designed 40mm dynamic drivers, providing precise and accurate sound across all frequencies. With eight microphones, four on each side (three external and one internal), the Ace delivers advanced active noise cancellation. The external microphones detect ambient noise, while the internal microphones monitor and adjust the sound in real-time to optimize the listening experience. This setup ensures that whether you’re immersed in music, podcasts, or movies, the audio remains clear and immersive.

Controls on the right ear cup: Slide the Content Key up or down to adjust volume. Press it to pause or resume content and take calls. Another button lets you quickly switch between ANC and Aware mode.

Reverting to an analogue hardware user interface, the Sonos Ace enhances ease of use without relying on visual confirmation, and I’m so delighted that they did. The tactile, mechanical slider—dubbed the Content Key—allows users to adjust volume, skip tracks, and manage calls with ease. It provides a reliable and intuitive alternative to touch controls, which can be prone to errors. This thoughtful design extends to the headphones’ connectivity options. The Ace supports both wireless and wired connections, making it versatile for various use cases. Multipoint connectivity allows the headphones to connect to two devices simultaneously, enabling effortless switching. Additionally, a single button press lets the Ace connect with Sonos home theater systems, offering an immersive Dolby Atmos experience with dynamic head tracking.

Integrating several eco-friendly features into the Ace supports sustainability. The headphones incorporate 70% post-consumer recycled plastic in their construction. The carry case, made from 75% recycled polyester derived from plastic bottles, complements this commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the ear cushions are easily replaceable, extending the product’s lifespan and reducing waste. Aki Laine highlighted Sonos’s dedication to creating long-lasting products, saying, “At Sonos, we are committed to creating products that last. The Ace incorporates 70% recycled plastic and features replaceable ear cushions, aligning with our sustainability goals.”

Boasting impressive battery life and convenient charging options, users can enjoy up to 30 hours of listening with active noise cancellation enabled. A rapid charge feature provides three hours of playback with just a three-minute charge, ensuring you never miss a beat even when time is short. The smart power management includes auto-pause sensors that stop playback when the headphones are removed, conserving battery life.

Sonos Ace is perfect for remote work

The post Sonos Ace challenges Apple’s AirPods Max with superior headphones first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sharkoon SKILLER SGM35 and SGM50W gaming mice

Sharkoon SKILLER SGM35 gaming mice

Sharkoon, a renowned manufacturer of gaming peripherals, has recently introduced two new additions to their gaming mouse lineup: the SKILLER SGM35 and the SKILLER SGM50W now available in both black-and-white finishes. One of the standout features of the SKILLER SGM35 and SGM50W is their captivating RGB illumination. The transparent undersides of these mice allow for […]

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Microsoft Excel Ultimate Beginner’s Guide 2024

MS Excel Ultimate Beginner's Guide 2024

Microsoft Excel is a powerful spreadsheet application that enables users to efficiently manage, analyze, and visualize data. This comprehensive guide is designed to equip beginners with the essential skills needed to navigate the Excel interface, enter and manipulate data, perform calculations using formulas and functions, format data for enhanced readability, organize and summarize information, and […]

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Audi A3 Sportback and Saloon Get New Engine Options

Audi A3

Audi, the renowned German luxury car manufacturer, has recently announced an expansion of its popular A3 Sportback and Saloon lineup, introducing new engine and gearbox options to enhance the versatility and appeal of these models. The addition of a 1.5-litre petrol engine, which delivers an impressive 116PS, powers the new 30 TFSI variant, now serving […]

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Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones are $72 off right now

There are a lot of really great headphones out there, but for us, none compare to Sony's WH-1000XM5 model. We're excited to say our favorite wireless headphones are now on sale, down to $328 from $400 — an 18 percent discount. While this isn't a record-low deal, it is the cheapest we've seen them available for yet this year.

Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones came out two years ago, yet they're still an amazing choice. We gave them a 95 in our initial review thanks to features like incredible crisp and clear sound quality with a punchy base. The M5, which offers active noise cancellation, also doubled the number of microphones and processors while adding an optimizer to ensure you can truly block out the rest of the world. The headphones also have up to 30 hours of battery life, and you can get another three hours with just three minutes of charging.

Despite the upgrades, the M5 is actually 0.14 ounces lighter than its predecessor and has better weight distribution, making for a more comfortable experience. The entire look is sleeker, though one of the few negatives of the M5s is that they don't fold, so they can be a bit bulky to carry around.

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This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/sonys-wh-1000xm5-headphones-are-72-off-right-now-123008959.html?src=rss

Xbar Titanium range of mini cutters and multitools hits Kickstarter

Xba Titanium multitool Kickstarter

The Xbar is a titanium mini Kata and multitool designed to provide assistance with a wide variety of different daily tasks and challenges you may encounter. Launched on Kickstarter, this innovative EDC pocket gadget is features a unique design and is constructed from titanium and other high-quality materials. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, an outdoor […]

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Creative Collaboration: Unleash Your Imagination with Google Gemini

Google Gemini

In the fast-paced world of digital creation, collaboration is key to achieving remarkable results. Google Gemini, the latest advancement in AI technology from Google, is set to transform how we collaborate on creative projects. This next-generation AI model seamlessly blends human creativity with advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, enabling teams to work together more efficiently and […]

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The Morning After: Microsoft introduces its AI-centric Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft couldn’t wait until its Build conference today. It just revealed a bunch of new hardware and plans for Windows. Copilot+ PCs were the big announcement, designed to run generative AI processes locally instead of in the cloud. Of course, Microsoft had new Surface devices to showcase these features, but the usual PC suspects also have new laptops that meet the spec requirements — and include Copilot+ in their name for added chaos. The company also claims Copilot+ PCs are 58 percent faster than the M3-powered MacBook Air.

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We’ll drill into some other announcements down below.

— Mat Smith

Another patient will get Neuralink’s brain implant

Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs will be available this fall

Here are all of the just-announced Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon X Chips

Volvo and Aurora introduce their first self-driving truck

​​You can get these reports delivered daily direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here!

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The new Surface Laptop is a redesigned PC with thinner bezels in 13.8- and 15-inch sizes and Qualcomm’s Arm-based Snapdragon X Elite chip. Microsoft says this is the brightest display it has ever shipped, at 600 nits, and the new Studio Camera is now in the bezel, so no visible notch.

Will the Snapdragon X Elite give better performance? Expect potent battery life. Microsoft claims the 15-inch model will run for up to 22 hours on a single charge while playing videos locally and up to 15 hours while actively browsing the web. We’ve got some hands-on impressions right here, but we’ve got reservations. Devices like the Surface Pro 9, which ran Windows on Arm, still didn’t feel as fast or responsive compared to their more traditional x86-based counterparts.

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Microsoft says it has rebuilt core components of Windows 11 to better support Arm-based hardware and AI. That includes a new kernel, compiler and, most importantly, an emulator named Prism, for running older x86 and x64 apps. Thanks to a powerful new Neural Processing Unit (NPU) in the Snapdragon X Elite chips, Copilot+ PCs can run more than 40 trillion operations per second, a measure of a chip’s AI performance, more than four times the performance of today’s AI PCs.

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This sounds very good. Microsoft also announced Recall, a new feature to make local Windows PC searches as quick and effective as web searches, tapping into AI to add more contextual search parameters. Microsoft product manager Caroline Hernandez gave the example of searching for a blue dress on Pinterest using a Windows PC with Recall. She can search the Recall timeline for ‘blue dress’ (using her voice), which pulls all of her recent searches, saving her from having to sift through browser history. She further refined the query with more specific details like ‘blue pantsuit with sequined lace for Abuelita,’ and Rewind delivered relevant results. Microsoft says it can start with exact information or vague contextual clues to find what you want — and it’s apparently all done locally. It is, however, a Copilot+ exclusive.

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AI companies love to tap Scarlett Johansson’s star power, but this time it’s a bigger player in AI. Johansson accused OpenAI of copying her voice for one of the ChatGPT voice assistants, despite her denying the company permission to do so. Johansson’s statement on Monday came hours after OpenAI said it would no longer use the voice. “The voice of Sky is not Scarlett Johansson’s, and it was never intended to resemble hers,” an OpenAI spokesperson said in a statement sent to Engadget. The Her actor said OpenAI only stopped using the voice after she hired legal counsel.

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This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-morning-after-microsoft-introduces-its-ai-centric-copilot-pcs-111916490.html?src=rss

GEEKOM A8 AI PC launches from $749

GEEKOM A8 AI mini PC

The GEEKOM A8 AI is a next-generation AI mini PC powered by the AMD HawkPoint Ryzen 8040 processor, delivering exceptional performance in a compact form factor. The A8’s metal housing, rounded corners, and anodized matte finish not only make it visually appealing but also ensure durability and longevity. Despite its small size, the A8 is […]

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Top 10 MUJI-Worthy Writing Supplies You Need In Your Arsenal Of Stationery

What really makes a desk stand out to me is the collection of stationery items placed on top of it (and also the manner in which they are placed). The true value and efficiency of your desk lie in the smart assortment of designs you adorn it with – these are after all the objects that are gonna help you get through your workday, and directly or indirectly affect your productivity. And if you’re someone who works better with taking notes and jotting down your plans and ideas, then this collection of writing supplies and designs is for you! From a Japanese memo pad to a levitating pen – these accessories are a must-have for your desk.

1. Everlasting All-Metal Pencil

The Everlasting All-Metal Pencil is the ideal writing supply that you definitely need to get your hands on. You can give up the eternal cycle of pencil sharpening and struggling with weak mechanical leads, and instead adopt this innovative pencil, which allows the effortless and smooth facilitation of your creative ideas. It is a one-of-a-kind writing tool that can keep up with your fast-paced thoughts!

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.95

Why is it noteworthy?

The pencil is made with a special alloy core, and it is placed inside a sleek aluminum body. The pencil offers a writing experience that is exceptionally smooth and provides a consistent and sturdy performance, without having to deal with the constant dilemma of sharpening.

What we like

  • You can easily erase whatever you’ve written or sketched using the regular eraser
  • Guarantees a smooth and effortless writing experience

What we dislike

  • There is no replacement tip for the pencil

2. Levitating Pen 3.0

Called the Levitating Pen, this grand writing accessory is basically a sleek black pen with a Schmidt ballpoint cartridge which makes the pen easy and sturdy to hold. The pen is designed to offer you an excellent hassle-free writing experience, and making it a seamless and smooth experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $129

Why is it noteworthy?

The Levitating Pen has a magnetic cap that you can click to your satisfaction. You can also place the pen in its holder, which is magnetized, and keeps your pen floating in that particular position! Give the pen a simple twist, and it starts spinning around for 20 seconds, allowing you to play with the pen and have fun.

What we like

  • Easy to write with, and to hold
  • You can spin the pen intervals to bust your stress and relax

What we dislike

  • The smooth edges of the pen may cause it to roll off the table when kept on a curved surface

3. MagBoard Clipboard

Meet the MagBoard Clipboard – this simple, efficient, and clever solution allows you to attach any paper – whether dotted, grid, or blank in 2 sizes, giving you access to writing material with ease. It provides a fresh paper smell whenever you attach new stationery. You just need to lift the magnetic panel and keep your pen inside to prepare for whenever the next big idea strikes!

Click Here to Buy Now: $45

Why is it noteworthy?

The MagBoard Clipboard is quite easy to organize and use. It features the Magnet x Lever mechanism which firmly holds your paper through the day, allowing you to shuffle your notes with ease wherever you go.

What we like

  • Features a magnetic design, which lets you attach the clipboard to metal surfaces
  • Doesnt feature a ring, so you don’t need to tear the paper away

What we dislike

  • Can only hold 30 sheets at a time, which can be limiting

4. Zen Pen

This unique Japanese-made pen utilizes visuals and texture to function as a wiring instrument that helps you be mindful of the present, even if it is only for a second. The pen is inspired by the composition of a Zen garden, sand, stone and more. The Zen Pen recreates the stillness of a zen garden on a smaller scale.

Why is it noteworthy?

It imitates the key elements of a Zen garden in such a manner that you can see and feel them in the palm of your hand. The 3D-printed grooves that snake around the barrel and cap remind you of the thin lines and circles that are drawn on a typical rock garden.

What we like

  • Result of the handiwork of skilled Japanese craftsmen utilizing modern technologies

What we dislike

5. Japanese Drawing Pad

If you’re someone who loves using Japanese paper, then you need to get your hands on the Japanese Drawing Pad. The Japanese Drawing Pad features high-quality Japanese paper which often much loved by artists, designers, and stationery lovers. It makes the writing experience so special and effortless!

Click Here to Buy Now: $26

Why is it noteworthy?

The pad is of excellent quality, and it lets you pen down your thoughts and ideas without the stress of accidentally damaging or tearing the durable paper fibers. It lets you remove all distractions, letting your thoughts roam freely, allowing them to grow and evolve.

What we like

  • It is microperforated which allows easy tearing
  • The pad is available in various sizes and colors

What we dislike

  • When you first look at the pad, it seems like an ordinary pad with no USP

6. Serenity Pen Stand

Dubbed the Serenity Pen Stand, this Japanese minimalist pen has a metallic hint and will store your pen upright, keeping it ready for you to use. The pan stand keeps your precious pen in place, providing easy access to it. Since pens can be easy to lose, this clever design ensures it is always in your sight.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

Why is it noteworthy?

The sleek little pen stand ensures constant access to your pen, ensuring you never lose it. The pen is made from aluminum and copper, and it serves as a well-balanced cylinder. It adds some personality and Japanese design ethos to your mundane workdesk.

What we like

  • You can easily set it up, use it, and carry it
  • Has a heavy copper bottom which ensures a stable form

What we dislike

  • The pen stand is quite small, and it can be easily lost

7. Japanese Paper Memo Block

Named the Japanese paper Memo Block, this little notepad will perfectly capture your itinerant and exciting thoughts, ensuring you never miss out on any of them. We live in fear of these thoughts escaping us, hence we need to note them down in the nick of time.

Click Here to Buy Now: $20.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Japanese paper Memo Block allows you to focus on the important tasks at hand, letting you note down your innermost thoughts before you lose track of them and get distracted. The memo block is quite small, and you can place it anywhere on your desk in any position.

What we like

  • Has a pure black/white surface which pulls new thoughts onto the paper from your mind
  • Made using high-quality Japanese paper

What we dislike

  • Looks like an ordinary memo pad with no real specialty

8. Bloomstick

Called the Bloomstick, this conceptual pen lets you note down your dreams since it is as important to write them down, as it is to make them come true. The pen lets your dreams “bloom like flowers” when you write them on paper using it. The tagline of the pen is “Click to bloom your dream”.

Why is it noteworthy?

The pen features a silicone-covered button which when you press, it opens up into a flower-like shape, allowing you to use it as a blooming instrument. The pen is available in a variety of different colors such as green, blue, and pink. When closed, it looks like a typical pen, but you can still use it.

What we like

  • Gives a whimsical and fun twist to your everyday pen

What we dislike

  • Seem to only have an aesthetic USP, no functional USP

9. Gravity Pen

Named the Gravity Pen, this sleek and all-black pen positions the center of gravity close to your fingers, ensuring a smooth and seamless writing experience. The pen is relatively easy to hold, and you can make quick agile strokes with it. It features a larger grip than the barrel, so you can hold it comfortably.

Click Here to Buy Now: $45

Why is it noteworthy?

Since the grip has a rather faceted form, the pen is easy to hold. It has an ergonomic design owing to the utilization of physics and minimalist design principles. It is the kind of no-fuss and no-frills writing instrument you need!

What we like

  • It is quite easy to hold and has an ergonomic form
  • Lightweight body making it easy to carry everywhere with you

What we dislike

  • Not a lot of color options to pick from, and limited choice of product

10. Eco-Friendly Pencil Sharpener

A winner of the Red Dot Design Concept Award, this Eco-Friendly Pencil Sharpener is a truly innovative and unique stationery design that increases the lifespan of tiny pencil stubs by elongating them! This ensures that your pencils last longer, and you don’t need to constantly keep replacing your pencils.

Why is it noteworthy?

You simply need to thread one end of the tiny pencil, and tap a larger pencil, so you can easily screw one pencil into another. This forms a bigger and longer pencil, which lasts longer, but also reduces wastage!

What we like

  • This unique design reduces the waste of pencil stubs, and the constant purchase of new pencils

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we are unsure how well-functioning and practical this product will turn out to be

The post Top 10 MUJI-Worthy Writing Supplies You Need In Your Arsenal Of Stationery first appeared on Yanko Design.